EVERY CHILD HAS A RIGHT TO QUALITY HEALTH-PROF NJELESANI

By Scoop Reporter

THE Lusaka Apex Medical University says it has made contributions to Zambia’s healthcare landscape through the provision of quality education, research and innovation and community engagement.

The medical learning institution has since embarked on a Lusaka Fit Futures study aimed at improving the quality of health among adolescents, saying every child has a right to education and health services.

Apex University vice chancellor Professor Evarist Njelesani said investing in adolescents is not just about preparing them for future leadership roles; but empowering them to make meaningful contributions.

He said stakeholders gathered, to discuss a collaborative initiative that represents a significant step forward in understanding and improving the health and lifestyle of Zambian adolescents.

Prof Njelesani said the multipurpose study will explore critical aspects of social, physical, mental, and reproductive health among adolescents within four selected secondary schools in Lusaka district.

 He said the study will also provide a comprehensive database which will serve as a foundation for designing interventions aimed at improving health outcomes and fostering resilience among adolescents in the country.

The named schools are Munali Boys, Matero Girls, Jacaranda and Northmead secondary schools.

He said the university was founded to complement the Zambian government’s efforts to train a high-quality workforce in the medical field, addressing the growing need for skilled healthcare professionals in the country and the Southern African region.

The institutions research focus areas include, adolescent health, climate change, digital health, maternal and child health, mental health, communicable and non-communicable diseases, nutrition and dietetics, indigenous knowledge, alternative medicine and clinical trials among others.

And Lusaka District Education Board Secretary (DEBS) Ian Miyoba said the use of substance abuse is among significantly obstacles that are impacting the pupils’ education and their health.

He said the government was putting efforts to address the challenges that are faced by pupils and has led to poor academic performance and health related issues.

He disclosed that about 170, 000 pupils that are enrolled in secondary schools across Lusaka district, saying the findings of a study would help the government to plan and create targeted programs that addresses the needs of pupils effectively.

 Mr Miyoba further said adolescents were also faced with challenges such as economic hardships, violence and health challenges such as HIV/AIDS.

“It is through collective efforts that can create a bright future for the young people, where every child has access to quality education and health services,” he said.